Patagonia's Premier Secret Fishing Lodge

Why Patagonia?

Why Patagonia? Well, there are so many reasons. But, one must understand that any story worth telling is never meant to compare – only to illuminate some of the bright features. Let the readers draw their own conclusion.

In Argentina’s central Patagonia region, one is at about 45° south, comparable reverse latitude in the United States along a line from Portland, Oregon through Minneapolis and easterly over to Augusta, Maine. All beautiful country. So, traveling south over the equator to an equally distant area, one finds that most of the “action” takes place in the agrarian and industrialized north. But, the fisherman’s mission is to discover areas where civilization may not have already left its mark.

Just imagine driving for hours, often over unpaved and lightly traveled roads. Great open spaces of land roll away towards such a variety of geological formations that at different points the visitor is:

In a desert, crossing a valley towards lofty snow-covered peaks. Immersed in a forest of two- to three-thousand-year-old Alerces Conifers. Enjoying the serenity of a crystal clear azure lake. Or bobbing along a waterway that offers deep pools, fast eddies and eminently wadeable runs! You could be in Montana, Wyoming, Redwood country or enjoying a remote Adirondack pond. But you’re not. Patagonia is today what might have been our back country – maybe 75 or 100 years ago! Seldom is there a sign of human occupations. In fact, there’s precious few of anything except trout, birds and beautiful, beautiful scenery.

The abundant populations of brown, rainbow and brook trout appear never to have been pressured, and the Patagonians are as dedicated to preserving their natural assets as the most ardent conservationist. Thus, under idyllic conditions these fish grow and multiply, providing the angler with constant fulfillment of the fondest dreams. The fish are tempted by the whole gamut of flies; from tiny dries, terrestrials and streamers to dropper combos that cater to every taste. Yes, the fishing is good. No, it’s terrific! Really.

But, why Patagonia? By now you’ve gotten the point that there’s a whole lot more to visiting this land than simply hooking a lot of big, fat, hungry trout. There is a natural paradise of beautiful scenery. And, the people, they are friendly and so happy to have you enjoy their country.

Their native cuisine relies upon beef, lamb and chicken plus many enticing vegetables. A specialty is the asada, almost a ceremonial grilling of meat around which is built an event, much like an American barbeque. It can last for hours and one doesn’t leave – hungry. Add their fabled Malbec wine from the Mendoza district, and you’ll both understand and appreciate even more why Argentina ranks high on any gourmet chart.

After coming all this way you’ll find it hard to turn around after just one week. So, you may want to extend your trips in the future beyond the customary week to 10 days or even two weeks duration. Visit yourself and you’ll understand “why Patagonia.”